Navigating tenant screening and leasing in Colorado means more than finding qualified applicants — it means following strict Fair Housing standards that ensure every applicant is treated equally. At Walters & Company, compliance isn’t just a requirement — it’s part of how we maintain trust, professionalism, and transparency for both owners and residents.
1. The Core of Fair Housing
The federal Fair Housing Act protects individuals from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status, and disability. Colorado’s Fair Housing laws expand these protections to include sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, ancestry, and source of income.
2. Consistency Is Key
Landlords must apply the same screening criteria to every applicant — every time. That means using uniform credit, income, and rental history standards, and documenting the entire process. Consistency helps protect owners from liability while demonstrating fairness and professionalism.
3. Communication and Advertising Matter
The words used in property ads and conversations with applicants also fall under Fair Housing scrutiny. Avoid language that could be interpreted as preferential or exclusionary. Instead, focus on the property’s features, location, and amenities — never on who “should” live there.
4. Accessibility and Reasonable Accommodations
Under Fair Housing law, landlords must provide reasonable accommodations for tenants with disabilities — such as allowing service or assistance animals, or making minor modifications that ensure access and use. Proactive understanding of these obligations helps prevent disputes and ensures compliance.
Why It Matters
A fair and transparent leasing process not only protects landlords from legal exposure but also fosters trust and long-term tenant relationships. At Walters & Company, we believe equal opportunity housing strengthens our Denver communities and upholds the integrity of property management.
Protect your investment the right way — partner with a Denver property management team that understands and upholds Fair Housing laws. Contact Walters and Company Property Management today to schedule your free consultation.
Walters & Company Property Management adheres to all federal, state, and local Fair Housing laws. We provide equal housing opportunities to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, ancestry, or source of income.
Call us: (720) 357-6655
Email us: rent@rentgowalters.com
Visit us: www.rentgowalters.com
